Ilario Grant as MJ and the cast of MJ the Musical. Image credit: Daniel Boud.
MJ the Musical is the hottest ticket right now, bringing the musical theatre experience to a whole new level.
As new musicals rise in popularity and begin to reach Australian shores during the cost-of-living crisis, it can be challenging for Australians to choose a show that captures the interests of the whole family. Whilst juke-box musicals are practically guaranteed money-makers in the wonderful world of musical theatre, they are often hit and miss with their consistency in storytelling in conjunction with the featured artists discography. However, mix the incomparable classics of Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5, incredible choreography and a compelling narrative, and you have the recipe for a perfect stage musical that ticks all the boxes.
Set in 1992 during rehearsals for Michael Jackson’s iconic Dangerous World Tour, MJ the Musical cleverly scales back and forth between the ‘present day’ and the pop star’s journey from child star to solo artist, with unpleasant memories fuelled by reluctant conversations with an MTV journalist given exclusive access to the rehearsal room. Telling Jackson’s story in this way helps the audience better understand the connection between his obsession with perfecting his stage performance and the physical and emotional abuse he experienced as a child from his father Joseph Jackson.
It is rare to come out of a musical with little to no notes on what could be improved, and this show is truly flawless. Every single performer from the ensemble to principal cast does not miss a beat. Featuring over 40 songs from Michael Jackson and The Jackson 5’s incredible discography, which in their collective careers make up approximately 25 studio albums, this show could easily go over the two and half hour mark. But thankfully, and to its credit, MJ the Musical chooses quality over quantity – producing some of the most outstanding stage choreography audiences can expect to see this side of the southern hemisphere, thanks to the genius of the King of Pop himself and Direction/Choreography from former Royal Ballet dancer Christopher Wheeldon, who won the 2022 Tony Award for Best Choreography for his work on the show.
I had the pleasure of seeing MJ the Musical twice during its Brisbane run, and something that stood out to me was Wheeldon’s presence of mind in ensuring that no matter which location the audience is sitting, they do not miss out. Throughout each musical number, performers are often facing different corners of the stage, including moments where MJ would look out to his adoring fans, much like a real concert going experience.
Ilario Grant SHINES as MJ, bringing powerhouse vocals and an electric stage presence, you can hardly keep your eyes off of him as he nails the iconic singer’s moves and sound. Grant showcases a beautiful sense of vulnerability and power of conviction in his portrayal of MJ – as the musical makes abundantly clear from the get-go, when it comes to a concert tour, what Michael wants, Michael gets. Amalgamating Jackson’s dedication to business, artistry and humanitarianism is no small feat, and Grant’s care and attention to detail in embodying such a nuanced individual is what makes him such an incredible artist. Watch for long enough and you’ll hardly believe it isn’t the man himself.
I really enjoyed seeing the younger iterations of Michael Jackson over the course of the show, and Liam Damons plays a pivotal role in steering the audience to better understanding the star’s journey to success as Michael in his teenage and young adult years. Damons really brings the energy into the space and it’s as though you can see the cogs ticking as he races into the recording studio with his idea for “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’”. As he plays the beat for Quincy Jones and gradually sounds out each instrument layered throughout the track, the excitement is palpable and Damons really makes you feel as though you’re getting a window into the artistic genius of Michael Jackson, a chef’s kiss performance.
Other standout performances include J. Daughtry as Joseph Jackson and MJ’s tour manager Rob. This is possibly one of the smartest creative choices I’ve seen in a show where two characters are played by one actor. Daughtry’s ability to shift swiftly between the hunched physicality of Joseph Jackson to the upright posture of MJ’s concerned manager Rob is a masterclass in acting – at no point in this show does the audience not know which character Daughtry is playing…and boy can he sing! Oyoyo Joi also brings stunning vocals to the role of MJ’s mother, Katherine Jackson. There is a beautiful scene in the show where both Little Michael and MJ get to sing a duet with their mother, which was a lovely moment of reflection and connection for these characters in what is such a high energy musical.
For many theatregoers out there, there will undoubtedly be reservations in attending a show about an artist with such a complicated and controversial history. However, there is no doubt that MJ the Musical is an exceptional theatrical experience from beginning to end, and I defy anyone watch this show and not have a good time!
MJ the Musical makes its final stop of the Australian national tour in Perth from 6 June. Book your tickets now at mjthemusical.com.au
